Hi All,

I have to admit I’m a little out of the loop when it comes to the F-16 scene in Florida. However, since I live in Jacksonville now I thought it might be good find out as much as I can.

I'll be racing in the Alter Cup this coming fall. As of now I have not sailed an F-16, though they interest me. I would like to be as prepared as possible for this year’s Alter Cup. I'm hoping that someone in Florida might be able to lend a hand. My crew and I would love to do some training over the summer to get familiar with the boats. Any advice or help would be greatly appreciated. Who knows, maybe you guys will even get a new fleet member out of the deal if I enjoy the boat.

In Michigan we were always happy to lend a hand to potential fleet members as best as we could. I'm sure Florida F-16 sailors do the same.

Thank you in advance for your help. I look forward to sailing with you.


Regards,

Chris Batchelor

There is a guy in Guflport (Tampa area) who has a Viper. You might be able to use his there for practice. You should contact the dealer who sold it to him to get ahold of him. Fun in the Sun is the ones you need to talk to.

http://www.funinthesunweb.com/

Hi Chris,

Congrats on qualifying for the AC. That is quite an achievement.

There are 5 Vipers being delivered across the Southeast over the next month or so. Unfortunately, they may not be any closer to you than Fun in the Sun in Clearwater. (Panama City, Pensacola/LA - dual home, Birmingham, Memphis, Memphis). I'll be back and forth to the Panhandle of FL this spring (the new Bham Viper) and summer, but I do not have any plans for an East coast trip.

The Blades would be a viable training boat - at least to get you and your crew accustomed to the sensitivity of the F16 and the wing mast - obviously, there will be subtle differences in crew position and similar things. My thought is that it would be at least a good introduction.

I'd do these things:
1. Contact Jill at Fun in the Sun
2. Contact Matt at Vectorworks
3. Go to the regattas (mostly South of you) where the F16s will be and check them out

There will be some F16s (of various flavors) at Juana's in September. You could certainly get some water time surrounding that regatta.

I hope this helps and welcome to the Southeast.